Football is known for its big hits. While the gladiatorial style of play has helped fuel football’s popularity, it has also been the cause of numerous head injuries resulting in permanent damage. Now, football programs from the high school level to the NFL are under pressure to reduce the number of concussions suffered by their players.

But football is not alone. As cheerleaders put on increasingly intricate performances requiring both individual athleticism and coordinated team effort, more and more cheerleaders are getting hurt. Likewise, cheerleading programs are now being pressed to change their rules to reduce injuries.